Water Safety: Stay Safe Around Open Water This Summer

As the weather warms up, many of us head to beaches, lakes, rivers, canals and outdoor swimming spots to cool off and enjoy time with family and friends. Whether you’re planning a seaside holiday, a countryside walk or simply spending an afternoon by the water, it’s important to remember that open water can present hidden dangers.

At Ezra Safety Group, fire safety is at the heart of what we do. During the summer months, we’re also keen to share practical seasonal safety advice to help everyone enjoy the warmer weather safely.

Never underestimate open water

Even on the hottest days, open water can be surprisingly cold. Entering cold water suddenly can cause cold water shock, making it difficult to control your breathing and swim effectively.

Open water can also contain hidden hazards such as strong currents, sudden drops, underwater obstacles and slippery banks. Conditions can change quickly, even if the water appears calm.

Whenever possible, choose designated swimming areas where lifeguards are on duty.

Supervise children at all times

Children are naturally attracted to water, making close supervision essential.

If you’re visiting the beach, a lake, river or paddling area:

• Keep young children within arm’s reach.
• Avoid distractions such as mobile phones while supervising.
• Teach children never to enter the water without an adult.
• Encourage them to swim only in designated safe areas.

Remember that drowning is often silent and can happen in a matter of seconds.

Stay safe at the beach

A day at the seaside is a fantastic way to enjoy the summer, but it’s important to stay aware of changing conditions.

Before entering the water:

• Swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards are present.
• Check tide times before setting out.
• Be aware of rip currents and changing sea conditions.
• Never use inflatables in offshore winds as they can quickly be blown out to sea.

If you’re unsure about conditions, speak to a lifeguard before entering the water.

Take extra care around rivers, lakes and canals

Unlike swimming pools, open water environments are unpredictable.

Avoid:

• Diving or jumping into water where you cannot clearly see the depth.
• Swimming alone.
• Entering the water after drinking alcohol.
• Walking too close to slippery banks or steep edges.

If you’re paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing or boating, always wear a correctly fitted buoyancy aid or life jacket.

If you find yourself in difficulty

If you unexpectedly get into trouble in open water, try not to panic. Your instinct may be to swim hard or fight against the water, but this can quickly lead to exhaustion.

Instead, remember the advice to Float to Live:

• Lean back and float on your back.
• Extend your arms and legs to help you stay afloat.
• Try to control your breathing and remain as calm as possible.
• Once your breathing has settled, call for help or gently swim to safety if you are able.

Floating helps your body recover from the initial effects of cold water shock and can give you valuable time until help arrives.

If someone else is in difficulty

It can be instinctive to jump into the water to rescue someone, but this can put your own life at risk.

Instead:

• Call 999 immediately. Ask for the Coastguard if you’re at the coast or the Fire and Rescue Service if you’re inland.
• Encourage the casualty to float on their back if they are able.
• Throw them something that floats, such as a lifebuoy or other floating object.
• Reach with a pole, branch or rope if it is safe to do so.

Remember:

Call. Tell. Throw.

Entering the water should always be the last resort and only undertaken by trained rescue professionals.

Look after yourself too

Water safety isn’t just about swimming.

If you’re spending time outdoors:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat and suitable clothing.
• Keep an eye on changing weather conditions.
• Wear suitable footwear on wet, uneven or rocky surfaces.

Planning ahead helps ensure everyone gets home safely.

Enjoy summer safely

Spending time around water is one of the best parts of summer. By understanding the risks, supervising children carefully and making sensible choices, you can help prevent accidents and create happy memories with family and friends.

At Ezra Safety Group, we’re committed to promoting safety wherever we can. While our expertise lies in fire safety, we hope these simple tips help you and your loved ones enjoy the summer safely.

If you found this article helpful, you may also enjoy some of our other seasonal safety blogs:

• Summer Child Safety
• Summer Driving Safety Tips
• Barbecue Safety Checklist
• Summer Safety

Have a wonderful, safe and enjoyable summer from all the team at Ezra Safety Group.

Website: www.ezrasafetygroup.co.uk

Email: info@ezrasafetygroup.co.uk

Telephone: 01772 349589